Bodies Are Cool
By Mandie Caroll,
Common Sense Media Reviewer
Common Sense Media Reviewers
A vibrant, joyous celebration of body diversity.
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Based on 1 parent review
What's the Story?
Big, small, dancing, happy bodies float around the opening text on the first page, setting the stage for an inclusive, body positive journey. Following spreads feature people moving their beautifully diverse bodies in a ballet class, making art together, celebrating a birthday, and enjoying a day at the beach, amongst other settings. Colorful comic-style illustrations are paired with clever, lilting descriptions of body features. The final page mirrors the first, floating bodies, this time in shirts with body positive slogans, surround a declaration of the inherent goodness of all bodies.
Is It Any Good?
This gorgeous, affirming book is destined to become a beloved, repeat read-aloud. The power of Bodies Are Cool lies in the portrayal of every kind of body engaging in everyday activities. Kid readers will be able to see themselves and people they love in these pages, no matter their gender, size, hairstyle, whether they have a prosthetic limb, eyes that don't see well or at all, skin that's dark and light swirled, or if they move around in a wheelchair or with crutches, and on and on. The cumulative effect on the reader is that body diversity just becomes normal. The underlying message, that all bodies are good and welcome part of our vibrant, human reality, comes through without being preachy or corny. This lovely book deserves a spot on every family and school bookshelf.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about how bodies are portrayed in Bodies Are Cool. Which bodies look like your body or the bodies of people you know? Which bodies look different? Why do you think the author wanted to show so many different bodies in the book?
When you're at school, going shopping, or at a community event, have you noticed people with bodies or features that are unique or new to you? What thoughts or questions did you have? How can you learn more about bodies you aren't familiar with?
When do you feel best in your body? What activities, clothes, foods, etc. make you feel good? How can people who care about you support you as you grow and your body changes?
Book Details
- Author: Tyler Feder
- Illustrator: Tyler Feder
- Genre: Picture Book
- Topics: Activism , Friendship , Great Boy Role Models , Great Girl Role Models
- Book type: Non-Fiction
- Publisher: Rocky Pond Books
- Publication date: June 1, 2021
- Number of pages: 32
- Available on: Paperback, Nook, Audiobook (unabridged), Hardback, Kindle
- Last updated: November 21, 2022
Did we miss something on diversity?
Research shows a connection between kids' healthy self-esteem and positive portrayals in media. That's why we've added a new "Diverse Representations" section to our reviews that will be rolling out on an ongoing basis. You can help us help kids by suggesting a diversity update.
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